World Cup: Morocco’s Ayoub Bouaddi and youngsters who have impressed so far
The start of the anticipated 2026 World Cup has seen youngsters defying age and stage fright with breathtaking performances in some of the big games that have so far highlighted the competition at the global stage.
From USA striker Folarin Balogun to the 18-year-old Moroccan sensation Ayoub Bouaddi, the football showpiece in North America has been nothing short of a revelation for young stars.
K24 Sports highlights several rising stars who have taken the stage with stride, rolling out performances that will remain the talking points of the historic edition.
Morocco’s Bouaddi
Morocco’s Atlas Lions 1-1 draw against Brazil on Sunday, June 14, 2026, was highlighted by the impressive performance of 18-year-old Ayoub Bouaddi.
The youngster, on his World Cup debut, controlled proceedings against a star-studded Brazil team, showing composure against Brazil’s famed midfield of Bruno Guimarães and Casemiro. The Ligue 1 ace never looked lost even for a moment, covering every blade of grass with the peculiar composure and versatility of a veteran.
AS Monaco’s Folarin Balogun was also on a hot streak as the hosts, USA, put on a show in Los Angeles in their opener against Paraguay.
The former Arsenal academy star was the man of the match after his brilliant brace saw Mauricio Pochettino’s side off to a dream start with an emphatic 4-1 victory over Paraguay. The unforgettable World Cup debut extended his international goal tally to 11 goals in 28 matches for the USA, and it marked the first time in World Cup history that America had scored four goals in a single match.
Scotland’s Bn Doak
The Scotland vs. Haiti clash also saw another youngster thrown into the limelight.
Ben Gannon-Doak was a silent force, dictating proceedings in the Tartan Army’s display en route to the memorable victory.
While John McGinn, the eventual match-winner, and ex-Hearts man Lawrence Shankland took the plaudits, Doak stole the show with a performance way above his 20 years. It was an assured performance as Scotland eyed their first World Cup win in 36 years. Having initially set up former Manchester United ace Scott McTominay, Doak was at the heart of the clincher from John McGinn.
The AFC Bournemouth youngster was credited with setting up Che Adams shortly after for a shot that would be parried right into the path of the skipper, who effortlessly converted for Steve Clarke’s men.
Nestory Irankunda was also at the heart of the Socceroos’ ideal start to their 2026 FIFA World Cup journey, which kicked off with a 2-0 victory over Turkey in Vancouver on Sunday, June 14, 2026.
The youngster born in a Tanzanian refugee camp to Burundian parents, produced a moment of brilliance to put the Socceroos ahead. The 20-year-old winger etched his name into the history books by becoming the youngest Australian player ever to score at a FIFA World Cup.
The result gives the Socceroos an early boost in Group D and sends a strong message to upcoming opponents, including the United States and Paraguay. More importantly, it showcased a new generation of Australian talent capable of making an impact on football’s biggest stage.
